Published on: 2026-08-17
Source: United Nations – Объединенные Нации –
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August 17, 2026 Peace and security
The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has expressed concern over the rapid increase in civilian casualties amid the escalation of hostilities in Yemen. Volker Türk called on the parties to immediately de-escalate tensions to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
According to the Office of the High Commissioner, since August 6, at least 17 civilians have been killed or injured in government-controlled areas due to attacks by the Ansar Allah group. Two more fatal incidents were recorded in areas controlled by this movement at the end of July.
“I urge all parties to reduce tensions and spare the people of Yemen from further suffering. Yemenis have already endured a great deal – years of conflict, mass displacement, a humanitarian crisis…” – Turk reminded, emphasizing the need for an immediate cessation of any actions that could once again lead the country to full-scale war.
Among the latest incidents is a strike by a rocket launched by “Ansar Allah” on a camp for internally displaced persons in Marib on August 7, which injured six people, including a child. On August 9, rocket and drone shelling of the city of Al-Mokha resulted in the deaths of three port workers and injuries to four others. The Office of the High Commissioner is also investigating reports of new strikes on the port on August 14 and 15, which may also have caused casualties.
On August 11, the Ansar Allah movement struck a cargo ship in the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, resulting in the deaths of four crew members – three Pakistani citizens and one Indonesian citizen – and several others were injured.
Türk emphasized that all parties are obliged to comply with international humanitarian law, refrain from attacks on civilians and civilian objects, and take all possible measures to prevent casualties among the population.
“Attacks on civilian infrastructure exacerbate the suffering of the population – at a time when at least 18 million Yemenis are facing food shortages. These strikes must stop immediately,” said the High Commissioner.
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